Only the strong survive

The rain reminds me that strength is often perceived as weakness. Looking out my back window during a fairly heavy rain I was noticing the crepe myrtle in full bloom and the purple fountain grass were bending quite a bit. As the rain fell I realized that the ability of the fountain grass and crepe myrtle to bend could be perceived as weakness.

Just looking on the surface, it could be said that neither was strong enough in the rain when actually, the strength was in bending and cooperating and in interacting appropriately with the current circumstance. They both would have damaged themselves with the added weight and in order to survive and prosper, neither remained upright or steadfast. The soil needed the rain and the plant to keep it stable and prevent it from washing away. The plants need soil, sun and rain for nourishment. The clouds need the sun and had to have a release in the form of rain. If nature instinctively knows to cooperate for the good of all, why can't we?

I keep hearing the president is weak but I believe if you say that with any seriousness we should also agree that America is weak by choice. Weak because we are so polarized and politicians are like deer caught in the headlights. Politicians afraid they will step off of the "perceived safety" of doing nothing. Afraid to step up or out for what a majority of people want. Taking only the time to blame the other side for the condition we as a nation are in. Not only is this a disservice to we the people it is also counter to making any hard decisions that they were elected to do in representation of the majority. Do you really expect other nations to follow in the American system of government when we are at a stalemate and have defiantly stood our ground or denied any progress time and time again?

(From http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/united-states-government)

Many terms describe the United States government. First of all, it is a democracy. This means the people rule. It is also a representative government. The people elect leaders who will represent their viewpoint when making government decisions. It is also a republic. This means that the chief of state (the president) is elected by the people. This is unlike a monarchy, where the throne is inherited through a family dynasty. The United States government is also a constitutional government. It operates according to a set of laws and principles that are outlined in a constitution. And finally, it is an example of the federal system of government. This means that the national government shares responsibilities with the state and municipal governments.

 

We are our worst enemy. When will we learn that yes, yes we do need protective legislation? Tex-ting and driving have broken many hearts and torn families apart. Our Texas governor believes that we should be allowed to do both if we choose but he does not approve of woman having equal pay for equal work, the right to choose a legal abortion or a method of birth control. How is it you want birth control methods to be an employer choice and not a woman's choice?  When will we have a real discussion about "corporations are people" or why workers should not have sick pay, or how about a living wage? What have we done about Sandy Hook? How do we feel about an eight year old with an Uzi?

Someone should represent me not resent me. Next election I will identify and vote for that person not the letter by their name because it is obvious we have only grid lock in office. The stalemate has to end.